After receiving sharp criticism from national and international quarters over the rising incidents of rape in Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has ordered compulsory martial arts training for girls in educational institutions in the state.

The state government decided that women in intermediate and degree colleges would be trained in martial arts, so that they may defend themselves when they are under attack, a top government official said on Tuesday.

“The chief minister is committed to ensure the protection of the women. He wants to encourage self defence,” state chief secretary Alok Ranjan said. 

Akhilesh’s directive came during a review meeting here.

 Senior police officials, including Uttar Pradesh DGP A L Banerjee, were present at the meeting.

Ranjan said that the concerned departments had already been directed to issue the government order. 

The state government also decided to increase the efficiency of the 1090 Women’s Powerline, a telephonic helpline for women in distress, which the chief minister said he would personally monitor. Akhilesh also directed police officials to take immediate and effective action in cases pertaining to crimes against women. 

He warned that stern action would be taken against lax officials. 

The government recently transferred around 100 police officials and suspended several others.

The measures come in the wake of opposition parties demanding the Akhilesh’s resignation for his apparent “failure” to keep a check on crimes against the women.